Chronic Respiratory Diseases

Chronic respiratory diseases are chronic diseases of the airways and other parts of the lung. Some of the most common are asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung cancer, cystic fibrosis, sleep apnea and occupational lung diseases. Respiratory diseases affect all ages-children, teens, adults and seniors. Most of these diseases are chronic in nature and all have a major impact not only on the individual with the disease, but on the family, the community, and the health care system.

• Asthma
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
• Sleep Apnea

Risk Factors

The two most important risk factors for chronic respiratory diseases are tobacco smoke (through personal smoking and exposure to second-hand smoke) and indoor and outdoor air quality. Those who smoke cigarettes increase their risk of developing lung cancer, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and asthma. Exposure to second-hand smoke affects all Canadians, causing cancer in adult non-smokers, sudden infant death syndrome in newborns and worsening symptoms of those with asthma or COPD. All Canadians are affected by the quality of air they breathe. However, the effects are more severe in those with lung disease. People who have chronic respiratory disease should refrain from smoking (or being exposed to second-hand smoke) and as much as possible ensure a high quality of the air they breathe.

• How can I keep my lungs healthy?

Facts & Figures

• Chronic Respiratory Diseases Facts and Figures
• Chronic Disease Infobase
• Economic Burden of Illness

Knowledge Development and Exchange

• Chronic Respiratory Diseases Publications
• Chronic Respiratory Diseases Clinical Practice Guidelines
• Canadian Best Practices Portal
• Chronic Diseases and Injuries in Canada (CDIC)

Initiatives, Strategies, Systems and Programs

National Lung Health Framework

The National Lung Health Framework is a 'Made in Canada' action plan developed by and for a wide range of stakeholders working to improve lung health. Its coordinated approach to the prevention and management of respiratory diseases, including asthma, will have a significant positive impact on the state of lung health in Canada.

• News Release - Government makes investment to improve respiratory health of Canadians

Links

• Chronic Respiratory Diseases Links